Applying surf wax correctly makes a real difference to your grip, your confidence, and how long your wax job lasts. Follow these four steps to get it right every time.
Step 1: Remove Old Wax
Begin with a clean deck. Use a wax comb to scrape off existing wax, then leave your board in the sun briefly to soften any remaining residue. Wipe the surface clean before you start. Applying new wax over old wax reduces adhesion and shortens the life of your wax job.
Step 2: Apply a Base Coat
A base coat is a harder wax applied first to create a textured foundation. This layer is what holds your top coat in place, without it, top coat wears off quickly, especially in warmer conditions.
Apply using firm diagonal strokes, then repeat in the opposite diagonal direction to build a crosshatch pattern of small bumps. Cover the full area where your feet make contact with the board.
Rad Wax Base Coat is formulated without petrochemicals or limestone filler, giving you a clean bond and a longer-lasting foundation.
Step 3: Select the Correct Top Coat
Surf wax is temperature-rated. Using the wrong grade for your water temperature significantly reduces grip. Warm water wax hardens in cold conditions, while cold water wax melts off in warm surf.
| Water Temperature | Recommended Wax |
| Foundation Layer | Base Coat |
| Below 16°C / 61°F | Cold Water |
| 16–20°C / 61–68°F | Cool Water |
| 20–25°C / 68–77°F | Warm Water |
| Above 26°C / 79°F | Tropical |
Check your local water temperature before each session if you're unsure.
Step 4: Apply Your Top Coat
Work the top coat into your base using small circular motions, building up texture rather than spreading it flat. Apply a slightly thicker layer where your back foot sits, as this takes the most load during turns and pop-ups.
Before each surf, a light rub over the surface is all you need to refresh grip. There's no need to re-wax from scratch each session if your base coat is intact.
Check out this video for more tips - https://youtu.be/wBM9iGdAN4Q
About Rad Wax
Rad Wax is made from a blend of fruit waxes, nut oils, and tree resins, with no petrochemicals, synthetic additives, or limestone filler. It's the Official Surf Wax of Team England and is trusted by coaches and competitors at the highest level of surfing. But more importantly is allows every surfer, of every level stay connected to their board, the ocean and every wave naturally. Stay Connected, Stay Rad!